Posts Tagged ‘security cameras’

Pros and Cons of Security Camera Systems

Thursday, September 9th, 2010

There isn’t a town or city in the UK which doesn’t have CCTV cameras monitoring the streets.

Many people have voiced concerns about this, pointing out that this is an infringement of our civil rights and that we are now a Big Brother state as a result of the proliferation of these security cameras. But for every claim that CCTV is a bad thing, there are many more which show how CCTV systems have made a major impact when it comes to cutting crime.

Consider for a moment how often you see CCTV images on the news. More often than not, these images become evidence in a major crime and when the case reaches court the CCTV footage has been instrumental in sending the criminals to prison. This covers everything from minor assaults to murders and robberies, and in some high profile cases, terrorist activities.

While those who are opposed to CCTV on our streets argue that we are now a Big Brother state, defenders of these security systems point out that the vast majority of the population have nothing to fear if they are caught on camera. A fair point, because if you are going about your daily life with no criminal intent and you happen to get filmed by CCTV security cameras, what is the problem? The chances are the footage will be deleted after a period of time, so you have nothing to worry about. It’s only those who are determined to commit crimes who have to fear CCTV equipment which monitors our streets, and surely, that has to be a good thing?

Still Not Convinced About CCTV Security?

Saturday, August 14th, 2010

If you are considering having CCTV cameras installed but you are still a little unsure about the benefits, it may help you make your decision when you look at some statistics which have been produced in this field. An independent survey carried out recently suggests that there have been significant reductions in the amount of crime being committed where cameras are installed. And to back this up, an article in a well regarded scientific magazine showed that simply installing a system can reduce crime, in the areas covered by the security cameras, by more than 95 per cent. If you’re not convinced yet that security camera systems can help you, carry on reading and look at the other benefits.

Once your CCTV security is in place, the chances of robberies and other crimes are less likely to occur. You only have to look at it from the criminals point of view to understand why this is the case. These people want to steal your stock, but they don’t want to end up in court, so they tend to avoid business which are protected by CCTV cameras.

Getting back to those statistics, it transpires that almost 80 per cent of thefts are down to customers or staff, with customers accounting for the largest amount. You have worked hard to build up your business, making many sacrifices along the way. Why let the thieves get away with stealing your goods? It is in your interests to have the best security cameras and CCTV equipment in place which will help you to tackle this problem.

Protect Your Business with CCTV Cameras

Thursday, August 5th, 2010

If you are concerned about security, either in your home or at your business, there are many benefits to using CCTV. If you are considering a CCTV camera installation in the workplace this will give you two major benefits immediately, in that it will help to provide a safer environment for you and your staff as well as making the business less likely to be targeted by thieves.

Depending on your needs, CCTV systems consist of either a single camera and monitor or they can be very elaborate, with several cameras located around the premises which are monitored from a remote location by a security expert.

Deterrence is the main reason why many companies install security cameras. Most thieves don’t just strike at random, but decide which building is vulnerable and easy to enter. If the building does not have CCTV, this will make it more attractive to them and before you know it, the gang has entered the building and cleared it out.

The same applies to shoplifters. If you are a retailer, you will know just how bad this can be for your business. If the potential shoplifter sees that your store is well protected by CCTV systems, they will more than likely move on to a shop which doesn’t have security camera systems.

CCTV cameras can also be used to keep an eye on the cash till, which will help you to resolve any misunderstandings which may take place when your staff are handling large amounts of money every day.

CCTV and Crime Figures

Saturday, July 3rd, 2010

The widespread use of CCTV cameras in Britain has led to some controversy from those who do not support the fact we are the most monitored country in the world. However, the use of security equipment has been beneficial in reducing crime of all kinds, from the high street right through to the workplace and the home.

We are all familiar with the CCTV systems on the high streets of Britain, and for most of us they just blend in to the background, seeing but unseen. Supporters of these CCTV installations point out that the majority of the population do not have to worry about them, as they are there as a deterrent to those who have criminal intentions on our streets, such as shop lifters, muggers and those who cause havoc with their anti-social behaviour.

The footage from CCTV cameras has also been used in many court cases, by both the prosecution and the defence, so there is yet another reason for them being present on our streets. CCTV Footage has either sent an individual to prison or helped to clear them when they have been wrongly accused of a crime.

In addition to these benefits, surveys have shown that CCTV helps to make people feel more secure as they go about their daily business in towns and cities all over the UK.

Different Types of CCTV Cameras to Consider

Sunday, June 27th, 2010

If you’re in the market for a new CCTV camera, you could well be blown away by all the choice on offer. It probably seems difficult to know where to start, so to help you understand the various systems available here’s a quick run through of some of the most popular options.

• Box cameras. These CCTV security cameras are incredibly popular and can be used for all types of business and industry, and you’ve probably seen them in various places across the country. As the name suggests they’re in the traditional box shape, and a lot of models are incredibly affordable so will be ideal for those on a budget.

• CCTV domes. In this area you can get options that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, and again they can be incredibly affordable so are the perfect way to keep an eye on events from all angles.

• Bullet cameras. These cameras offer high resolution images and many can be suitable for both day and night use, and because they’re often smaller than most box cameras they can be ideal for those that don’t want their security system to be too obvious.

These are just a few of the most popular CCTV cameras available, but you’ll probably need some more advice before you decide on the right ones for you. If that’s the case, make sure to head to us here at CCTV4U and we’ll be pleased to help with any queries you may have, and will be able to point you in the right direction of the perfect cameras for you.

How Security Cameras Can Improve Your Business

Monday, June 21st, 2010

If you own a business, you’re sure to understand how important it is to have the right security in place. It’s essential you have everything covered and having security cameras really can help to improve your business, but here are a few more facts if you need help convincing.

The most obvious advantage to having cameras and other CCTV equipment is for the security of you and your employees. There will always be opportunist vandals or criminals out there looking for ways to make a quick profit, but if you’ve got cameras in all areas they’ll soon be deterred from trying anything. This can benefit your business in two ways – not only are the personnel safe, but your profits will increase thanks to the lack of theft or damage to stock.

CCTV can also be used as a great way to monitor your business and ensuring everything’s running smoothly. You can’t be everywhere at once but by having an appropriate security system in place your eyes can be everywhere even when you’re not, giving you peace of mind knowing your business is running smoothly.

As you can see, security cameras really can help your business to thrive. They can be used for the protection of staff, the prevention of theft, an increase in profits and even for effective monitoring, so consider investing in an effective system to give your business that boost it needs.

Check out the CCTV website for further information and equipment.

Why Quality Matters with CCTV Equipment

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

Quality should always be your top priority no matter what products you buy, but it’s even more important when you consider CCTV equipment. The whole point of having security equipment in the first place is to feel more secure, but if you don’t purchase quality cameras how can you be sure they’ll be doing their job?

Ultimately, that’s what makes the quality of CCTV so important. You want to feel safe and secure, and the only way of achieving that is to ensure you’ve got the proper security equipment in place that won’t suddenly break down when you least expect it.

Low quality equipment is liable to be faulty, buggy and generally not worth the money, and it certainly won’t give you the peace of mind you’re looking for. Once your security cameras are in place you don’t want to have to worry about fixing them every 5 minutes, and if you go for cheaper items then that’s probably what you’ll have to do.

Your equipment needs to be relatively maintenance free. You want to be able to simply install it and leave it, safe in the knowledge you’ve got nothing to worry about. But, you can only do that if you go for high quality and reliable pieces, so don’t skimp out in an attempt to save some cash.

As you can see, quality really does matter with CCTV equipment. But that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get the products you’re looking for, and if you come to us here at CCTV 4U we’ll be able to provide you with the top-quality equipment at the right prices to meet your needs perfectly.

Does CCTV Infringe On Our Privacy?

Saturday, June 12th, 2010

There’s been a lot of news press in recent years about the level of CCTV in place across the country, and whether or not it’s really necessary. Many would argue it infringes on our privacy, but is this really the case?

Well, it’s certainly true that there are far more CCTV security cameras in the UK than just about anywhere else in the world. We’re a nation that’s constantly under surveillance, with 2.5 million cameras catching the average person roughly 300 times per day. But does it mean that it’s infringing on our rights?

Not always. The cameras are there for security and to act as a deterrent to criminals, and they can also be used to help convictions come to fruition. If you’re an average person going about your daily business then there’s no reason to worry, as the cameras won’t even notice you’re there. And besides, most people wouldn’t feel half as safe if there weren’t the cameras around, so although some may feel our privacy is at stake the benefits far outweigh it.

There have even been talks in recent weeks about downgrading our reliance on security cameras, so anyone that is concerned is sure to be relieved. But really there’s no reason to worry, because as long as the cameras are in the hands of the professionals they’re not going to abuse their power.

So, while some people may feel that CCTV cameras infringe on privacy, for many there’s really not much to be concerned about. They can provide valuable security and peace of mind, and if you think you need a camera or two make sure to come to us here at CCTV 4U.

What Types Of Security Cameras Are Available?

Friday, April 23rd, 2010

Whilst all CCTV cameras have basically the same functionality, i.e. the transmitting of footage to a monitor or recorder, you may be surprised by the rich variety of types of security camera – from ultra modern “dome” cameras, to recognisable “box” cameras. So what kinds of security camera are there, and what are their distinct advantages for the user?

Domed Cameras

Domed cameras are fast becoming the industry standard and this is for a variety of reasons. For example, as the actual security camera system is housed inside a protective dome, it is impossible for the camera’s position to be changed externally, which has obvious implications in terms of security.

Box Cameras

Whilst box cameras might be more vulnerable to external damage and are more immediately recognisable as a security device (which may be a good thing if you’re using them for a deterrent), they are often the most affordable of the CCTV camera types and can come with a range of features, such as night vision.

Covert Cameras

Of course security cameras extend beyond static CCTV systems and there are a wide range of covert solutions. IP cameras, for example, can be as simple as a webcam, with the advantage of being able to upload footage of an intruder straight to the web.

But where can you buy CCTV in all its form to suit your requirements? Well, at CCTV4U we have a wide range of cameras and camera systems to suit any application, and any budget!

What Does The Law Say About Home Security?

Wednesday, April 7th, 2010

CCTV represents the ultimate in a home security solution, acting not only as a deterrent for any potential burglar or vandal, but also as an important source of evidence should the worst happen. CCTV remains a controversial security measure, however, and its improper usage could do more than just annoy the neighbours, and could potentially put you on the wrong side of the law. So, what exactly are the legal requirements for CCTV systems?

In line with the Data Protection Act of 1998 if you’re using CCTV on behalf of an organisation, you will need to register with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. If on the other hand you are using CCTV for home security then you will most likely be exempt from the registration process, specifically the Data Protection Act states “personal data processed by an individual only for the purposes of that individual’s personal, family or household affairs (including recreational purposes) are exempt from the data protection principles and the provisions of Parts II and III.”

This apparent leniency in the law for home CCTV users is should be taken with a pinch of salt however, and you should still be conscientious when positioning your CCTV systems. Basically, you should keep the field of view to within your property, as indirectly or directly filming your neighbours by be seen as an infringement of their human rights, ironically maybe even landing you in court.